Prototyping and Pilot Plant Senior Technician

Clorox • Willowbrook, IL

101d • $27 - $48

About The Position

Glad is seeking a hands-on, creatively driven Prototyping and Conversion Sr. Technician to support the development of next-generation trash and waste management solutions. This role is ideal for a creative problem-solver who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and is passionate about turning ideas into tangible prototypes. This hands-on role is also responsible for working within a team to operate and maintain pilot plant equipment used to convert plastic film into finished trash bags. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, and thrives in a collaborative R&D environment. This position will be located in Willowbrook, IL and the individual will be expected to work 5 days a week, Monday to Friday, dayshift. Opportunity for overtime, as business need supports.

Requirements

• 4+ years of experience in prototyping, model making, or hands-on product development (experience in consumer packaged goods or flexible materials/plastics is a plus).
• Or 4+ years of experience in a pilot plant, manufacturing, or technical operations role (experience with film conversion or flexible packaging is a plus).

Responsibilities

• Build and iterate physical prototypes of new concepts for bags and wraps, using sealing, patterning, gluing and other lab/pilot scale equipment.
• Operate and maintain prototyping equipment such as heat sealers, cutting tools, and custom tools.
• Document processes, test results, and learnings to support iterative development and knowledge sharing.
• Train other technicians in safe and efficient operation of equipment and prototyping production.
• Collaborate closely with R&D scientists to bring early-stage ideas to life.
• Apply creative problem-solving to address functional, aesthetic, and manufacturability challenges.
• Draw inspiration from a wide range of sources—consumer insights, industrial design, sustainability trends, and adjacent industries—to inform prototyping approaches.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and well-stocked prototyping lab environment.
• Work with pilot plant team to operate conversion equipment that converts plastic film into trash bags.
• Support experimental runs by setting up equipment, monitoring process parameters, troubleshooting equipment and process issues and generating data via relevant test methods.
• Maintain equipment and ensure safe, clean, and organized workspaces.
• Document procedures, observations, and results to support product development and translation to manufacturing.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts in pilot plant operations and process efficiency.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health plans
• Market-leading 401(k) program with a company match
• Flexible time off benefits (including half-day summer Fridays depending on location)
• Inclusive fertility/adoption benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Industry: Chemical Manufacturing